is at once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is at once" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something occurs simultaneously or is true in multiple ways at the same time. Example: "The novel is at once a thrilling adventure and a profound exploration of human nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All is at once elegant, informal, dramatic.

The New York Times

"She is at once passionate and pragmatic.

The New York Times

It is at once disgusting and divine.

The New York Times - Food

It is at once overwhelming and remarkable.

The New York Times

He is, at once, everywhere and nowhere.

The Economist

This is at once terrible and wonderful.

University of California, Berkeley

He is at once humiliated and moved.

The Guardian - Film

It is at once damnable and debonair.

The New Yorker

"Angels" is at once epic and intimate.

The New Yorker

Each is at once inaccurate and unhelpful.

The New York Times

It is at once tender and tough.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is at once" to concisely convey that a subject has two seemingly contradictory or distinct qualities simultaneously, creating a nuanced description.

Common error

Avoid using "is at once" when a simpler, more direct description would suffice. Save it for situations where you want to emphasize a notable duality or paradox.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is at once" functions as a descriptive connector, linking a subject with two seemingly disparate or contrasting attributes. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is used to express simultaneous qualities, creating a nuanced portrayal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is at once" serves as a powerful tool for highlighting duality, conveying that a subject embodies two distinct qualities simultaneously. As the Ludwig AI analysis confirms, it is grammatically sound and finds frequent use across reputable sources. Its strength lies in its ability to add depth and complexity to descriptions, making it particularly valuable in news, academic writing and more formal contexts. While alternatives like "is simultaneously" and "is both" exist, "is at once" brings a nuanced emphasis to the immediate juxtaposition of contrasting attributes. Mastering its appropriate use can elevate your writing, ensuring precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is simultaneously

Replaces "at once" with the single word "simultaneously", maintaining the meaning of happening or being true at the same time.

is both

A more concise way of expressing the dual nature of something, often followed by "and".

combines

Focuses on the merging of two qualities or characteristics into one.

displays simultaneously

Highlights that multiple characteristics are observable at the same time.

exhibits concurrently

Emphasizes the parallel existence of different attributes.

is characterized by

Indicates that the subject possesses multiple distinguishing features.

incorporates

Suggests the inclusion of multiple elements within a single entity.

integrates

Focuses on the blending of different aspects into a unified whole.

melds together

Conveys the idea of different qualities fusing to create a combined effect.

fuses both

Implies the combination of features, emphasizing their merger into one.

FAQs

How can I use "is at once" in a sentence?

Use "is at once" to describe something that possesses two distinct or contrasting qualities simultaneously. For instance, "The movie is at once humorous and tragic."

What can I say instead of "is at once"?

You can use alternatives like "is simultaneously", "is both", or "combines" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "is at once" in formal writing?

Yes, "is at once" is appropriate for formal writing as it is grammatically correct and conveys a sophisticated nuance. However, consider your audience and the specific tone you wish to achieve.

What's the difference between "is at once" and "is both"?

"Is at once" often implies a more immediate or striking juxtaposition of qualities, while "is both" simply states the co-existence of two qualities without necessarily emphasizing a contrast.